Project-Based Learning
(PBL) is an instructional approach where traditional, direct classroom instruction and tests are replaced by authentic, often interdisciplinary projects, usually designed by the student with guidance from instructors/coaches, addressing real-world problems as the assessment instead of a test. It also is closely related to deeper learning, challenge-based learning, interest-based learning and more.
Voices from the Field: Best Practices
By: Erin Gohl and Kristen Thorson. We can support our teachers and the work they do by valuing their perspective and insights, providing them with the resources specific to their students’ needs, and giving them the autonomy to respond to the variations in learning and circumstance within their classrooms.
The Power of Place: Authentic Learning Through Place-Based Education
Tom Vander Ark, Emily Liebtag and Nate McClennen share six defining principles of place-based education in their new book “The Power of Place: Authentic Learning Through Place-Based Education.”
‘Why Do We Have to Learn This?’—Part II
By: Art Bardige. The way math is taught in school is antiquated. Spreadsheet math and open web schools can more adequately prepare students for our time.
D.C. Students Learn New Skills In An Old Building: Washington Leadership Academy
In a century-old building that once housed a seminary in northeast Washington, D.C. is a great college prep high school. It’s a bit “Oxford on the outside, Google on the inside.
How the Brain Science of Games Helps Students Reach ‘Aha Moments’
By: Nigel Nisbet. Brain science games can provide students with vehicles for inspiring more and more 'aha moments'—something that is hard to do at will.
6 Collaboration Tools That Take Learning Beyond the Classroom
Collaboration tools can promote student choice and extend learning to meet their needs. Here are 6 options for schools to consider.
Forward-Thinking Schools Begin With Forward-Thinking Design
By: Larry Spang and Emily Grandstaff-Rice. Arrowstreet, a Boston-based architecture and design firm, is dedicated to accentuating schools’ missions through thoughtful and strategic design, creating customized spaces that support today’s teaching styles and emphasize educational facilities’ unique purposes.
Where Lifelong Skills and Curriculum Meet
By: Tynetta Harris. Focusing on the development of 36 cognitive skills is the key to deeper, lifelong learning and post high school success.
Competency-Based Approaches Focus On Skills, Relevancy and Personalization
Redefining learning outcomes and assessments by applying competency-based approaches will lead to more personalized and relevant learning.
Education Needs A Lot More ‘YES’
To foster innovation and transformational change, we must allow our students’ voices to be heard. Let’s learn to say ‘yes’ to their ideas!